A Brighter Future Is Within Your Reach

A Brighter Future Is Within Your Reach

Massachusetts child support Q and A

On Behalf of | Jan 20, 2017 | Child Support, Firm News |

When faced with a case regarding the financial support of one’s children, it is normal to have questions. Child support can be a confusing thing to figure out, as there are a lot of factors that go into determining eligibility and amount to be paid. This column will address some common questions parents in Massachusetts may have about child support.

The first question to be discussed is: Who can apply for child support? In Massachusetts, any parent who has primary custody of his or her children may file to receive child support. In cases involving parents who were never married, paternity will need to be established first.

The next question to be discussed is: How long is support to be paid? Every state has different opinions on this topic. In Massachusetts, the parent ordered to pay child support will have to pay at least until the child turns 18. It may be extended until the child reaches the age of 21 if the child still depends upon parental support.

Finally, the last question that will be addressed is: How is the amount of child support to be paid determined? Several factors are looked at to determine how much a non-custodial parent will be required to pay. These include his or her income level, the number of children to be supported and special needs of the affected children — among several others.

These are just a few questions that parents in Massachusetts may have about how child support works. Obviously, there are many more that could be addressed. An experienced family law attorney would be able to answer any other questions one may have and provide information specific to his or her case.

Source: womenslaw.org, “Know The Laws : Massachusetts — Child Support“, Accessed on Jan. 18, 2017